Planning
- Accepts reservations
- Dinner reservations recommended
oChef » Chome – San Francisco
Chome - San Francisco
Photo from Chome
Chome at a glance
San Francisco Mission District
- 🍣 Japanese Restaurant
$$
Price per Person $51–$60
mentioned by 69 of the guests
#1377 out of 2403 places to eat in San Francisco
#120 Japanese Restaurant out of 174 in San Francisco
Good
7.3 out of 10
Food
Service
Ambience
Value
554
Reviews
70.9%
Satisfaction
Often praised
- Unique food
- Great service
- Quirky ambiance
Frequently criticized
- High prices
- Inconsistent food
- Cramped seating
The restaurant Chome, a Japanese restaurant in San Francisco’s vibrant Mission District, invites you to a truly memorable dining experience. You’ll discover a cozy, casual, and trendy atmosphere perfect for any occasion.
Whether you’re seeking healthy options, late-night bites, or delicious vegan dishes, this spot has you covered. It’s a place where you can unwind and savor authentic flavors.
Overview: Introducting Chome
Chome offers a distinctive dining experience, often praised for its unique food and attentive service. Many appreciate the quirky vibe and intimate setting, making it a pleasant spot for a meal.
The happy hour also stands out as a notable draw for many patrons. However, some visitors have found the experience to be pricey for the portions received, and there are occasional concerns about inconsistent food quality or a less-than-welcoming service interaction.
The atmosphere, while generally positive, can sometimes feel a bit cramped or loud.
Good
7.3
out of 10
554
Reviews
70.9%
Satisfaction
122
negative
39
neutral
393
positive
Chome earns a respectable overall score of 7.3, indicating a generally good dining experience, with customer satisfaction also landing at a solid 70.9%. This positive reception is built on a substantial base of 554 customer observations, with 393 positive remarks outweighing 122 negative ones.
The Food (7.5), Ambience (7.4), and Service (7.3) all contribute positively, each scoring well within the ‘good’ range. However, Value (5.5) registers as average, suggesting that while the quality is appreciated, some guests feel the pricing might not always align with the portion sizes or overall experience.
What people like
- Unique, delicious food
- Attentive, friendly service
- Quirky, intimate ambiance
What people don't like
- High prices, small portions
- Inconsistent food quality
- Loud, cramped seating
Chome presents a compelling option for those seeking a distinctive Japanese izakaya experience. With a solid recommendation score of 7.5, it’s certainly worth considering if you appreciate creative dishes and a lively, unique atmosphere.
However, be mindful of the pricing, as some find it a bit steep for the portion sizes. If you prioritize a vibrant setting and flavorful, albeit sometimes inconsistent, food over strict budget adherence, Chome could be a good fit for your next outing.
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Verdict: Our expert take on Chome
Food (7.5 out of 10)
mentioned by 97% of the guests
When it comes to the food, this spot generally hits the mark with a good score of 7.5 and a good customer satisfaction of 73.3%. Guests frequently rave about the delicious combo skewers, millionaire green bacon, and salted egg kabocha, praising the inventive combinations and overall flavor bomb experience. With 239 positive remarks out of 326 total, theres a clear appreciation for the creative menu and variety.
However, not every dish is a home run, as noted in 60 observations. Some diners found the sashimi to be less than fresh, while others mentioned small portions or food being served cold. There were also comments about inconsistent quality, suggesting that while many dishes are excellent, a few, unfortunately, fall into the low quality of the food' category.
Food
326
Reviews
73%
Satisfaction
60
negative
27
neutral
239
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Inventive flavor combinations
- Fresh, flavorful dishes
- Excellent skewers
What people don't like
- Inconsistent food quality
- Small portion sizes
- Sashimi not fresh
Often praised
- foodMy experience at this restaurant was wonderful. I loved the unique and delicious food, the attentive and friendly service, and the wonderful atmosphere. The spicy miso ramen, which was pictured, was a perfectly balanced medley of flavors and textures.
- FoodFood:5
- menuIt's perfect for a relaxed evening out in SF. Menu: The menu is eclectic and fun, focusing on robatayaki (charcoal-grilled skewers of meats, veggies, and seafood), creative nigiri and handrolls, ramen options like fiery lobster or vegan varieties, and small plates including karaage, edamame, and desserts. They’ve got sake, beer, and cocktails to pair, with prices around $8-15 for skewers and $20-30 for larger dishes.
- pineapple beerpineapple beer is a must try. even for a non beer enjoyer like me it was super yum!!
- ramensome of the best ramen I've ever had
- OM BiteFavourite fish so far is OM Bite
- complimentary potato saladcomplimentary potato salad which was actually delicious
- dishesAll the dishes looked as good as they tasted
- flavorfulmost of the dishes were flavorful
- good foodVery cozy with good food
Frequently criticized
- foodthe food was really pricey and was not very good
- sashimiSashimi was not the freshest used to eating bluefin and not having fishy after taste but this has a fishy after taste
- flavorsPerhaps it will take some time to adjust to the new space. Unfortunately, even the flavors were not as I remember.
- skewersThe flavors were overpowering, and the food's texture was poorly executed. Specifically, the skewers were too dry and overcooked, the ramen was mushy, and the karaage lacked crispiness. Adding to the disappointment, the prices were rather high.
- FoodFood:1
- binchotan charcoal grillI doubt they're using a binchotan charcoal grill as the flavor was not there
- broththe broth way too sweet
- carbonara$30 for a carbonara with a little udon and bacon bits and 4 pieces of duck is crazy
- chocolate lavaHowever, to be frank, the dessert was quite a disappointment. The panna cotta was inedible, and the chocolate lava was way too sweet. Both desserts were presented poorly, covered under a mountain of whipped cream.
- cocktailsCocktails were awful
If you're seeking creative, flavorful dishes with a wide variety, especially their unique skewers and inventive combinations, this place is definitely worth a try. Just be aware that some fresh items and portion sizes have received mixed reviews, so choose your dishes wisely for the best experience.
Service (7.3 out of 10)
mentioned by 67% of the guests
The service here generally hits the mark, with a solid score of 7.3 and a good 71.6% customer satisfaction. Many guests rave about the friendly service and attentive staff and servers, often highlighting their helpfulness and efficiency. With 68 positive remarks out of 95, its clear that quick food delivery and excellent "allergy accommodation" are frequently appreciated.
However, its not always a smooth ride. Some experiences mention mediocre service or feeling rushed, with occasional items forgotten or arriving late. While 25 negative comments are fewer, concerns about long waiting time and a perceived unfriendliness or rudeness from staff do pop up, suggesting inconsistency.
Service
95
Reviews
71%
Satisfaction
25
negative
2
neutral
68
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Friendly, attentive staff
- Quick food delivery
- Allergy accommodation
What people don't like
- Long wait times
- Forgotten items
- Rushed service
Often praised
- serviceMy experience at this restaurant was wonderful. I loved the unique and delicious food, the attentive and friendly service, and the wonderful atmosphere. The spicy miso ramen, which was pictured, was a perfectly balanced medley of flavors and textures.
- staffService: No reservations were needed for our small group, and we were helped right away on a weekday. The staff were super friendly, efficient, and knowledgeable about the menu, offering great recommendations on skewer pairings and pacing the meal well. Tips: Reservations for parties of 4 or more can be made via text a day ahead, as it can get busy.
- ServiceService:5
- wait timeWe stumbled upon Chome while just walking past in San Francisco’s Mission district and decided to check it out for dinner. We walked in with no reservations or wait and were seated right away. This quirky Japanese izakaya feels like a hidden gem in the neighborhood, and it was the perfect spot for a casual, flavorful meal.
- foodThe food came out very fast
- friendly serviceWhile a few items didn’t leave a lasting impression, the dining experience as a whole was enjoyable. The service was friendly, and the relaxed atmosphere added to the appeal. It’s a great option if you're in the area and looking for a stylish spot with dependable food.
- serverThe server helped me choose something to eat
- serversThe servers were super attentive!
- BYOByou can BYOB for a small fee
- Chrome Browser Menu ButtonI enjoyed ordering the Chrome Browser Menu Button.
Frequently criticized
- serviceMy experience at this restaurant was marked by snarky service. They cut off orders for happy hour 15 minutes before it ended, contributing to an overall unfriendly vibe, as if we should feel lucky to eat there.
- new locationMy experience was that the restaurant does not exist at the new location. We saw it says it opens on Google Maps, but when we arrived, there was a closed Chinese restaurant instead.
- waithad to wait 25 mins
- Google Maps listingThe restaurant's Google Maps listing indicated it was open
- experienceThis resulted in a wasted $35 on Uber and an hour of our time. It was a very bad experience.
- getting a tableDidn't get a table after waiting two hours
- happy hour ordersCut off orders for happy hour
- items forgottenItems were forgotten
- items lateor late
- lineIt sucks that I don't live near here, but I will try to come by any time I can. Make sure you get there early; we arrived about 10 minutes before anyone else was there, and the line got long fast! So be prepared!
Overall, if you value friendly, attentive staff and quick service, you'll likely have a great experience here. Just be mindful that some guests have encountered longer wait times or occasional inconsistencies, so it might not always be perfectly smooth sailing.
Ambience (7.4 out of 10)
mentioned by 70% of the guests
The ambiance here generally hits the mark, with a solid score of 7.4 and a good customer satisfaction rate of 70%. Many guests rave about the cozy restaurant feel, unique decor, and the pleasant Indian music or overall atmosphere, often calling it a hidden gem. With 70 positive remarks out of 100 total, it seems most people find the vibe quite appealing.
However, not everyone is entirely charmed. Some concerns arose from 23 negative comments, particularly regarding the music volume level being too loud for conversation, tables being too close together, and seating feeling a bit squished. There were also a few critiques about the decor, with some finding it kitschy or even questioning the art choices.
Ambience
100
Reviews
70%
Satisfaction
23
negative
7
neutral
70
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Cozy atmosphere
- Unique decor
- Pleasant music
What people don't like
- Loud music
- Cramped seating
- Questionable decor
Often praised
- atmosphereThis quirky Japanese izakaya feels like a hidden gem in the neighborhood, and it was the perfect spot for a casual, flavorful meal. Atmosphere: This cozy spot channels a quirky, offbeat vibe in the Mission. It features intimate seating with about 20-30 spots in its expanded location on 26th Street, simple wooden tables, dim lighting, and an open kitchen where you can watch the chefs grill over binchotan charcoal.
- AtmosphereAtmosphere:5
- placeI also loved the aesthetic of the place. It is super clean, well decorated with awesome art! I would definitely check this place out, especially during happy hour!
- vibesExcellent vibes!
- ambianceThe ambiance and the food is great
- decorSuper cute and unique decor
- experienceIt was delicious. I highly recommend eating here as often as your wallet allows for an incredible experience.
- Indian musicall under the blanket of Indian music
- Japanese and hip experiencevery Japanese and hip experience
- aestheticI love the aesthetic of the place.
Frequently criticized
- musicWe particularly enjoyed the happy hour from 5-6. The only downsides were that the tables are so close together and the music is really loud. Our favorite items were the calamari and the chicken thigh skewers.
- parkingParking space:Somewhat difficult to find parking
- spaceso cosy that you are basically sitting next to people with almost no space
- tablesWe particularly enjoyed the happy hour from 5-6. The only downsides were that the tables are so close together and the music is really loud. Our favorite items were the calamari and the chicken thigh skewers.
- vibeMy experience at this restaurant was marked by snarky service. They cut off orders for happy hour 15 minutes before it ended, contributing to an overall unfriendly vibe, as if we should feel lucky to eat there. While the happy hour items were of good quality, the portions were really small.
- AI imagesthere are also several AI images
- ambianceAmbiance is lame
- ambiencematch ambience of prior location
- atmosphereAtmosphere of a j town gift shop
- decorThe decor is the biggest downgrade. They are ugly
If youre looking for a cozy spot with a unique vibe and dont mind a potentially lively atmosphere or close quarters, this place could be a delightful find. However, if you prefer quiet conversations and ample personal space, you might find the ambiance a bit overwhelming.
Value (5.5 out of 10)
mentioned by 31% of the guests
When it comes to value, it seems like a bit of a mixed bag, but there are definitely some bright spots! Many folks raved about the amazing deals, especially during happy hour, calling it definitely worth it and highlighting the great value. The affordability and reasonable prices, particularly for happy hour specials, really stood out among the 16 positive comments, making it feel like a steal for many diners.
However, not everyone felt the same way, with 14 negative comments suggesting that the pricing could be a bit steep. Some found it pricey or expensive, feeling that the portions didnt justify the cost, and even that it was "not worth the price. " Overall, the value score sits at an average 5.5, with customer satisfaction at a mixed 48.5%, indicating that while some found great deals, others felt it didnt quite hit the mark for the price point.
Value
33
Reviews
48%
Satisfaction
14
negative
3
neutral
16
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Great happy hour deals
- Definitely worth it
- Reasonable prices
What people don't like
- Too pricey
- Expensive for portions
- Not worth the price
Often praised
- happy hourThe food was stellar, the service was great, and the atmosphere was incredibly cute with unique decor throughout the entire restaurant, even in the bathroom. The prices were reasonable, and the happy hour is an amazing deal.
- priceDefinitely worth the price.
- pricesprices were mostly on par
- affordabilityWhile things can be chaotic, that's part of the appeal. It's affordable for a small bite and interesting enough for a big night out. There's lots of variety, and it's all worth trying.
- decently priced mealexceptional decently priced meal
- happy hour menureally good happy hour menu from 5:00PM-6:00PM.
- happy hour specialsall on the happy hour specials
- valueDefinitely worth it!
Frequently criticized
- price$30 for a carbonara with a little udon and bacon bits and 4 pieces of duck is crazy
- UberWe saw it says it opens on Google Maps, but when we arrived, there was a closed Chinese restaurant instead. This resulted in a wasted $35 on Uber and an hour of our time. It was a very bad experience.
- pricesI guess I could justify it if the prices were lower
- priceythe food was really pricey
- expensiveIt just didn’t wow me. There’s a very big menu that’s a bit hard to navigate, it’s very expensive, casual setting, and it didn’t deliver a high level dining for the price point. I enjoyed my dinner but don’t think it’s an experience I will do again.
- price pointat this price point
- pricingThe pricing for the portion and food is ridiculous
- spent $110Spent $110 and left hungry
If youre looking for a great deal, definitely aim for happy hour, as thats where the value truly shines. Otherwise, be prepared that some menu items might feel a bit pricey for what you get, potentially leaving you wanting more for your money.
How are the prices at Chome?
You’re looking at roughly 58 $ per person – reported by 69 diners. That puts it in the $51–$60 category. For a Japanese Restaurant, it’s comfortably mid-range: not a steal, but not bank-breaking either.
While the average is around 58 $, the spending actually varies quite a bit. Many guests spend less, often in the $31–$40 range, suggesting some great value options. But theres also a significant group opting for a more premium experience, with some checks going well over 100 $.
Its a real mix!
Here’s a quick look at what guests spend per person, based on the latest 69 reviews.
A look at how this restaurant’s value for money compares to similar spots in San Francisco.
Considering the variety of Japanese cuisine and the vibrant city of San Francisco, we think the pricing here feels pretty fair. There are options for different budgets, which is always a plus!
Customer Reviews: what people think about Chome
Price per Person
- $41–$50
Visit Type
- Food Exploration
Service Type
- Dine-in
Wait Time
- Immediate (0–5 min.)
9
Innovative Asian Dishes & Great Service
My experience at this restaurant was incredibly positive! It's one of the most innovative restaurants I’ve been to in San Francisco. They consistently refresh their menu with the coolest Asian dishes.
The servers were super nice, and the food arrived quickly. I highly recommend the shiitake egg tofu, salted egg kabocha, and any of their carbonaras!
- innovative restaurants10
- coolest Asian dishes10
- servers10
Price per Person
- $51–$60
Visit Type
- Casual Outing
Group Type
- Couple
Group Size
- Couple
Service Type
- Dine-in
Wait Time
- Immediate (0–5 min.)
6
Good Food, A Bit Pricey
I've been to this restaurant a couple of times now. I would recommend going for happy hour for the best deals. Everything tastes good, but it is a little pricey, and there weren't any dishes that are absolute must-haves for me.
- happy hour8
- Everything7
- dishes5
- pricey4
Visit Type
- Food Exploration
Group Type
- Friends
Group Size
- Large Group
Service Type
- Dine-in
Wait Time
- Short (6–15 min.)
9
Amazing Food, Cute Decor, Minor Seating Issue
My experience at this restaurant was overwhelmingly positive, making it one of the best meals I've had in a while. The decor was super cute and unique, with charming cat paintings on the walls that contributed to a cozy, homey feel. The service was excellent; the food arrived very quickly, and the staff were knowledgeable and helpful in explaining the dishes.
I particularly loved the omurice and the tuna dish, with the mango sushi being a surprisingly unique and delicious option. All the dishes were not only delicious but also beautifully presented, looking as good as they tasted. The lychee non-alcoholic spritz was also a standout – incredibly refreshing and a perfect complement to the meal.
The only downside was the seating, which was a bit squished, making it slightly difficult for our group to enter and exit our table. Despite this minor inconvenience, I would definitely return, especially for that amazing tuna dish.
- decor9
- homey feel8
- food9
- seating4
Price per Person
- $101+
Visit Type
- Food Exploration
Service Type
- Dine-in
3
Overcooked Food, Awful Cocktails
My experience at this restaurant involved trying their combo, bacon set, seafood set, and some handrolls. The food was just okay, unfortunately a bit overcooked. The cocktails were awful.
Considering the price point, I believe there’s much better yakitori available in the Bay.
- food5
- overcooked3
- cocktails1
- price point3
Service Type
- Dine-in
10
Exceptional Service and Menu Navigation!
My experience at this restaurant was exceptional, particularly with the service. The reviewer described the ordering process using the "Chrome Browser Menu Button" as being like the cockpit of a plane, where everything needed is within arm's reach. Accessing bookmarks or customizing settings was a breeze, akin to having a personal assistant ready to help fetch favorite sites and settings.
The reviewer also rated Service, Atmosphere, and Food as a perfect 5 out of 5.
- service10
- Chrome Browser Menu Button9
- Atmosphere10
What Chome offers
Crowd
- Groups
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
Popular for
- Dinner
- Lunch
- Solo dining
Amenities
- Gender-neutral restroom
- Restroom
Offerings
- Healthy options
- Late-night food
- Vegan options
- Happy hour drinks
- Wine
- Beer
- Small plates
- Happy hour food
- Cocktails
- Organic dishes
- Vegetarian options
- Private dining room
- Alcohol
Dining options
- Dinner
- Table service
- Dessert
Service Options
- Dine-in
- Takeout
Parking
- Free street parking
- Paid street parking
Atmosphere
- Cozy
- Casual
- Trendy
FAQs
Can you make reservations at Chome in San Francisco's Mission District?
Yes, Chome accepts reservations, and dinner reservations are highly recommended to ensure you secure your table. Planning ahead allows you to fully enjoy your dining experience without a wait.
What dietary options are available at Chome, the Japanese restaurant?
Chome offers a diverse menu catering to various dietary preferences, including healthy options, delicious vegan dishes, organic selections, and vegetarian options. You’ll find something to suit your taste.
How is Chome rated overall by customers?
Chome receives a good overall score of 7.3, with customer satisfaction at 70.9%. Its Food (7.5), Ambience (7.4), and Service (7.3) are rated well, though Value (5.5) is considered average.
What do customers particularly enjoy about Chome?
Many customers praise Chome for its unique and delicious food, attentive and friendly service, and its quirky, intimate atmosphere. The happy hour deals are also frequently highlighted as a positive aspect.
What are some common criticisms or drawbacks mentioned by diners at Chome?
Some diners find the prices to be high for the portion sizes, leading to concerns about value. Other criticisms include occasional inconsistencies in food quality, and the seating sometimes being described as loud or cramped.